Matlacha Hookers’ Gaylor recognized with 2023 Outstanding Woman Award

Matlacha Hookers Vice Madam Julia Gaylor, right, was selected for the 2023 Outstanding Woman Award by radio station Sunny 106.3. PHOTO PROVIDED

Florida radio station Sunny 106.3 recognized Matlacha Hookers Vice Madam Julia Gaylor with its 2023 Outstanding Woman Award on July 14. Gaylor was selected to receive this honor for her generous and tireless work following Hurricane Ian.

She is a well-known volunteer in the greater Pine Island and Matlacha communities. She emerged as perhaps the most prominent contact, with the ability to connect resources to those who needed them most. Her tenacity and communication was critical in the early days following Ian, and continues to be integral to the rebuilding effort. She reached out to individuals, local and national businesses and political leaders to organize help for those in need.

Gaylor’s efforts included organizing 10 building supply distributions valued at over $100,000 to nearly 750 Pine Island residents. Much needed supplies included drywall, insulation, supply bins, electrical outlets, wire, nails, screws, plywood, primer, drywall mud, tape, batteries and bedding. She also organized and participated in many road and community clean-ups, including the Pine Island Road corridor from Pine Island Center to the Yucatan restaurant, and multiple trash pickups on Stringfellow Road and its many tributaries.

She is also spearheading the 2023 Hurricane Ian grant program for local Pine Island and Matlacha small businesses and nonprofits. The Matlacha Hookers awarded $24,000 during the first round of this competitive grant program and plans on awarding another $35,000 in October 2023.

Pine Island Elementary has announced that the school has started and it needs volunteers! Volunteer training will ...